Six Sigma

The term Six Sigma has various definitions depending on the person and the organization. The most comprehensive definition and use of Six Sigma is a total management philosophy with a customer based focus to conducting business. Six Sigma is also a problem-solving methodology, utilizing the DMAIC steps (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) that is applicable to any industry or any process. Finally, Six Sigma is a statistical measure of variation that represents a high level of quality for a specific “critical-to-quality” characteristic equivalent to 3.4 Defects Per Million Opportunities (DPMO). A process yielding a Six Sigma level of quality is the Holy Grail for the manufacturing community.